I wrote about Clif Winery last week so this week I’d like to focus on the actual wines. The first wine we tried was The Climber 2006 Red Wine. We had some people over so I intended to share it over a nice tri tip dinner (I actually marinated it in Jack Daniels and apple cider - it was awesome). This struck me as a red meat type of wine based on what I read.
Someone recognized the Clif logo on the bottle and mentioned it to La Jolla Dad, so he opened it. This all occurred while I wasn’t paying attention. I was rushing around the kitchen. Well, I saw the opened bottle, nearly empty and managed to catch the last glass. Whew. People loved it, but I think it was accentuated by our hearty meal. I tasted blackberries with a little bit of pepper. It’s big on flavor. Here are the details:
Blend: 32% Zinfandel, 28% Syrah, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 4% Petit Sirah
Alcohol: 14.7%
Winemakers Notes: “Dark ruby in color, the 2006 Climber Red features enticing aromas of blackberry and spice while juicy flavors of raspberry and black cherry are the introduction to this balanced wine. Intense notes of black fruit, cocoa and espresso commingle on the mid palate as the integrated tannins carry the rip fruit flavours through for a long luscious finish.”
That description almost makes you want to eat it on top of vanilla ice cream! The wine was aged in used and new oak barrels for 18 months. The suggested retail price is about $17. Clif wines can be found around San Diego at some Albertsons, Del Cerro Liquors, Windmill Farms and soon Jimbo’s. More locations to come.
OR I saw on Clif Wines Twitter page @clifwine that there’s 1 cent shipping this week should you like to buy the wines online!
Rating: 
Yes I would buy it and drink it again. It is perfect with a hearty steak and would also be excellent with a cheese platter. If you like big, dark fruit red wines, this is for you. Also, a fitness oriented crowd will LOVE that it’s affiliated with the beloved Clif Bar. Trust me, it will make an interesting converation piece. As I mentioned last week, I received this wine as a sample to try.
For an explanation of Wine Wednesday ratings click here.
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